By Janel McNair, El Paso County Public Health Acting Disease Prevention and Response Division Director
As warmer temperatures return and summer approaches, residents may want to take stock of their wildfire preparedness. May marks National Wildfire Awareness Month, a timely reminder that while wildfires have increasingly become a year-round concern, the highest risk still coincides with the hot, dry conditions of summer.
This summer will be especially dangerous due to low snowpack. With vegetation beginning to dry out across the region, the coming months are likely to bring heightened fire danger. That makes both prevention and preparedness critical for communities, particularly in fire-prone areas like El Paso County.
The El Paso County Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response program emphasizes that wildfire prevention starts with everyday awareness. Here are several key steps residents can take to reduce the risk of accidental fires:
- One of the most important precautions is understanding local outdoor burning regulations. Restrictions on open burning can change daily depending on weather and fire conditions. Residents living within city limits should follow municipal guidelines, while those in unincorporated areas must adhere to county regulations. Checking current restrictions before starting any outdoor fire is essential.
- Residents should report any unconfined or illegal fires immediately. Quick reporting to local fire departments can prevent small incidents from escalating into dangerous wildfires.
- For those conducting permitted burns, safety remains paramount. Fires should always be kept small, contained within designated pits or rings, and located away from flammable materials such as dry grass, shrubs or trees. Fires should never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished before being abandoned.
- Common household and yard equipment can also pose unexpected risks. Tools such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, tractors and weed trimmers are capable of producing sparks that may ignite dry vegetation. Using such equipment responsibly, particularly during dry and windy conditions, can significantly reduce fire hazards.
- Vehicles are another often-overlooked source of wildfire ignition. Dragging tow chains, exposed metal parts or worn brake components can generate sparks. Additionally, parking or driving over dry grass can ignite fires due to the high heat of exhaust systems. Fire safety experts recommend carrying a fire extinguisher in vehicles as an added precaution.
- Discarded smoking materials remain a persistent cause of wildfires. Smokers are advised to properly dispose of cigarettes in fireproof containers filled with sand and to ensure they are fully extinguished. Tossing cigarette butts onto the ground, particularly in dry areas, poses a serious fire risk.
While prevention is key, officials stress that preparation is equally important. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notification systems such as PeakAlerts (elpasoteller911.org/peak-alerts), which provide real-time updates during emergencies in El Paso and Teller counties.
Understanding personal wildfire risk is another crucial step. Homeowners can take action by creating defensible space around their properties, clearing away dry vegetation, and using fire-resistant building materials where possible. These measures can significantly improve a home’s chances of withstanding a wildfire. (You can understand more about your home’s risk of wildfire at coswildfireready.org/know-your-homes-wildfire-risk.)
Equally important is having a clear evacuation plan. In the event of a wildfire, residents may need to leave quickly with little notice. Planning evacuation routes in advance and ensuring all household members understand the plan can save valuable time.
Preparedness also includes assembling an emergency “go-bag” with essential supplies such as water, food, medications and important documents. Pet owners are reminded to include animals in their evacuation plans, ensuring they have carriers, food and supplies ready if needed.
Remember, a combination of vigilance, preparation and community cooperation can make a significant difference during wildfire season! Start preparing today to keep yourself, your family and your home safe this summer!
